You’re pretending to be unaware of Tinubu’s whereabouts – Presidency hits Peter Obi
The Nigerian presidency has criticized Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), for allegedly feigning ignorance about President Bola Tinubu’s whereabouts.
Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, made these comments following inquiries regarding the president’s absence from the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
Onanuga noted that other prominent African leaders, including South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, were also absent from the UNGA without drawing significant public scrutiny in their respective countries. In a post on X, he wrote, “Ramaphosa booked himself off public engagements, and Johannesburg and Pretoria didn’t show any strong reaction.” He added that Egypt also did not face backlash over el-Sisi’s absence.
According to Onanuga, President Tinubu had decided to take his annual break, delegating official responsibilities to Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented him at the UNGA. He expressed frustration that Obi appeared uninformed about Tinubu’s decision.
Onanuga confirmed that Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria on September 29 to commemorate the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary and to honor MKO Abiola. Initially scheduled to return over the weekend, the presidency later announced a change in plans. After returning from France, Tinubu is anticipated to spend approximately one week in Lagos before traveling to Abuja.
